The fate of the Empire rests on this enterprise. Every man must devote himself totally to the task in hand.

The mindless rejoicing at home is really appalling; it makes me fear that the first blow against Tokyo will make them wilt at once...I only wish that [the Americans] had also had, say, three carriers at Hawaii.

The fiercest serpent may be overcome by a swarm of ants.

A brilliant man would find a way not to fight a war.

In the first six to twelve months of a war with the United States and Great Britain I will run wild and win victory upon victory. But then, if the war continues after that, I have no expectation of success.

A military man can scarcely pride himself on having smitten a sleeping enemy; it is more a matter of shame, simply, for the one smitten.

The fate of the Empire rests on this enterprise. Every man must devote himself totally to the task in hand.